The first thing I noticed about Charlotte was just how many trees there were growing downtown. You get some skyscrapers, but they’re out there with so many trees. Charlotte, North Carolina, is a vibrant city that blends Southern charm with modern sophistication. In just three days, you can explore the best of what Charlotte has to offer, from its diverse culinary scene to its stylish shopping districts and luxurious hotels.
Whether you’re a foodie, a shopaholic, or simply seeking a memorable getaway, the Queen City promises an unforgettable experience packed into a delightful three-day trip Charlotte itinerary. When it comes to weekend getaways, you can’t beat this amazing city!
We put together our three day itinerary with the idea that you get to check in before dinner and then have a little time before heading out for your flight!
Check In
Breakfast at Milkbread
Milkbread is a local café famous for serving breakfast all day so it was really fun to experience it before checking in at the Grand Bohemian Hotel. Originating from Kindred, who introduced their signature milk bread—transformed into delectable donuts—the café is very popular.
Milk bread, a Japanese brioche-style dough, is milk-based, fluffy, and light, offering a better texture compared to traditional donuts. We enjoyed some homemade cinnamon rolls and glazed donuts. There are a bunch of savory options, such as avocado toast, smoked ham toast with gruyere, and a crispy chicken biscuit.
Milkbread also features a gluten-free, vegetarian Morning Bowl topped with labneh yogurt, blueberries, citrus, nut crunch, mint, and local honey which was very nice. We loved the warm Milkbread beignets and a hot dip chicken sandwich.
Arrival at the Grand Bohemian Hotel
We arrived at the Grand Bohemian Hotel on the Wednesday before our trip and it was the perfect place to stay. One of the best things about the hotel is the on-site amenities, including the Mico Restaurant, The Bohemian Garden private rooftop park and bar, and the Buho bar.
This is a gorgeous hotel in uptown that’s part of the Marriott autograph collection. It’s a colorful upscale hotel that looks like a palace with artwork everywhere. The furnishings are grand, but not sterile like some hotels can be. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and also full of lovely colors. Everywhere you look there is unique decor, and I especially liked the horse sculpture by reception.
For more details about the hotel and how to book, you can visit this LINK.
Enjoy Craft Cocktails at Búho Bar at the Grand Bohemian
After checking in, we relaxed the best way by having drinks at Búho Bar which is a cocktail lounge 16 floors above the Charlotte skyline. We tried the La Puesta del Sol, containing Grey Goose Strawberry & Lemongrass Essences Vodka, Blood Orange, Lemon and Honey. They have a gorgeous interior with moody lighting, rich colorful walls, and artwork everywhere.
You can also opt to sit outside with the rooftop views and lots of bright light for a completely different ambiance.
Unforgettable Vibes at Middle C Jazz
If you’re looking for the premier jazz spot in Charlotte it’s here! Dark and moody with a full bar, you can enjoy a classy night out with 3 or 4 shows a night from some of the top jazz talent from around the world. It’s a New York-style upscale club with live jazz performances from regional and national acts.
Middle C Jazz is one of the best places to see live jazz up close and personal. The venue can seat up to 200 people. Enjoy cocktails, wine, small plates and desserts provided by Dressler’s Improv. Kitchen. Craft cocktails and small plates are served starting at 8:45 pm.
Day 1 in Charlotte NC
Breakfast at Mico Restaurant inside Grand Bohemian
For our first day in Charlotte we went to Mico, a restaurant with a globally inspired, seasonally driven Argentinean menu. Each dish takes you on a culinary adventure, blending diverse cultures and customs for an unparalleled dining experience in Uptown Charlotte.
I like hotel breakfasts like Mico for weekday breakfasts because it’s really nice upscale dining and most brunch places are only available on weekends. We went there for breakfast and had the delicious smoked salmon terrine as well as churro donuts (which I highly recommend because they were so soft and warm).
Coffee and Quick Bites at Coco and the Director
We also went to this cute spot inside the Marriott hotel just a few steps away from Grand Bohemian, known for their Cronuts. It’s a great place to go if you’re staying in the uptown area and want something sweet and quick, plus they have lots of seating. It’s one of those fun things you can do without having to spend a lot of time there.
Day Trip to Yadkin Valley
We took a day trip just a short one-hour drive outside of Charlotte to the Yadkin Valley! This place is famous for being North Carolina’s inaugural American Viticultural Area (AVA). Its moderate elevations and how close it is to the Yadkin River create an ideal environment for a diverse range of grape varieties, sparking the growth of many wineries there. North Carolina is a small but growing wine scene and Charlotte is really moving up in the wine scene. It used to be primarily known for sweet wines, but they’ve made such big steps forward for all wines now.
Yadkin Valley is laid back with some gorgeous vineyards, and if you want to have these places almost all to yourself, be sure to visit on weekdays. At the vineyards, you will find mostly old-world, rustic, earthy wines. It’s important to know that there isn’t much food there and most vineyards don’t have food besides some charcuterie boards (there may be food trucks on the weekends but this is not guaranteed). Your best bet is to bring food on your trip or stop at the Shiloh General Store for food. (Luckily NC Wine Gals provides charcuterie and lunch).
Our Experience with NC Wine Gals
We took a private wine tour at NC Wine Gals because unlike some vineyards, they focus on actually teaching you about wine and you can try all the different tastes. The vineyard is female-owned and female-led. We met Harry the Wine Dorkie – a cute little dog who is a mix of Dachshund and Yorkie who you can request to join your tour. Score for a person like me who loves dogs but travels too much to have a dog.
The guided tour took us to three places, Raffaldini Vineyards, Castello Barone Piccione, and because we were fast we managed to squeeze in Dyanims Estate (it’s typically three wineries).
Before the start of the tour, there is also a breakfast and wine pairing, and you get to keep a cute keepsake glass. They provide a charcuterie board, lunch, and plenty of snacks as well as water. For the wine tastings, they give you a wine aroma kit to try if you really want to get into it.
Booking a tour with NC Wine Gals really helps you get a deep understanding of the wine scene of NC that you might not get on your own. If you truly want to understand wine and become knowledgeable about it versus just being driven somewhere and getting tipsy, this is the place to be.
This place is popular for bachelorette trips (but I like it more for getting an elevated wine education). During our tour, we sampled Chamberson (a French American hybrid), Merlot, Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, and Sauvignon Blanc and had a great time.
Vineyards We Visited in Yadkin Valley
We explored Yadkin Valley with over 80 vineyards as well as Swan Creek which is within Yadkin because it has a different microclimate.
- Raffaldini Vineyards: This vineyard was like visiting Tuscany and is more on the higher end. They were the first vineyard to plant Vermentino and Sagrantino grapes and they have the biggest Sagrantino grapes in the USA.
- Castello Barone: Castello Barone is an Italian & French style vineyard that may not be the prettiest but has some of the best local wine. Scott Barone is the owner and is all about family-style ambiance. This might not be as Instagram worthy as some of the others, but what you’re getting here is the owner running the farm everyday and a family owned business you’re supporting.
- Piccione: This vineyard is Italian-owned and includes a new tasting room, event hall, library, courtyard, underground barrel room, bridal suite, and more. The courtyard overlooks the estate vines and is a perfect space for wedding ceremonies. Bacchus is their most popular wine and Petit Manseng has a lovely, unique taste, while La Lana is an off-dry wine.
- Dynamis Estate Wines: Dynamis Estate Wines have the most expensive wine bottle in North Carolina. In general, the wines are at a higher price point but they are also worth the price. The ambience is more laid back with a shaded patio overlooking their vineyard. It’s not as picturesque as say Raffaldini or Piccione and it is pricey, but as soon as you take a sip of that (yes $40 glass of wine), you know you went to the right spot.
Dinner at Mariposa
Mariposa is an upscale restaurant and lounge in the Mint Museum, featuring carefully curated small plates, crafted cocktails, and unique wines and spirits from around the globe. Enjoy uptown views, velvet couches, elegant black and white decor, and artwork by Charlotte muralist Owl. Located in the Mint Museum, they offer a dynamic world-to-table culinary and cocktail experience.
Their menu, which changes frequently, features culturally influenced dishes and drinks, including several shareable mezze inspired by North African and Mediterranean traditions. Partnering with Sam Fleming at 100 Gardens, Mariposa sources fresh lettuces and greens from their aquaponics garden project at The Innovation Barn.
We wanted to order the Moroccan Mezze Board but they were out, so we had Seared Scallops, Tuna Crudo, Turkish Kofta, and Lemon Whipped Ricotta. To drink, we enjoyed a Blueberry Bourbon Sour and Dulce de leche martini. For dessert, we shared a Flaming Sticky Toffee Pudding.
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Day 2 in Charlotte
Breakfast at La Belle Helene
La Belle Helene is like you’ve walked into an elegant French cafe with fresh flowers greeting you, black and white tiles lining the floor, cozy green semi-circle tables and a high ceiling with large windows reflecting all the light. It’s named after the famous opéra bouffe by Jacques Offenbach that was set in Ancient Greece. Your receipt even comes in an old Iliad book.
This sophisticated French brasserie in Uptown is redefining classic dishes with a contemporary flair. The beautiful, European-inspired design invites you to indulge in French cuisine with delightful offerings such as Bananas Foster French Toast, the Croque Madame sandwich, and an array of delectable crepes. They serve Pâtisserie du Jour – a different weekly pastry, which they usually share online.
We had the Grand Panier du Boulanger which includes a croissant, pain au chocolat, seasonal danish, cinnamon roll, and brioche à Tête. We also tried the French Crullers which have lemon glaze and macerated blueberries. I loved the Crème brûlée with latte torched on the top so you can sip on your favorite dessert.
Interactive Art at Luminous Lane
Really close to La Belle Helene and essentially where we parked, Luminous Lane is a whole alley of artwork bringing color to a dark space. This place is worth going to before or after La Belle Helene, but not so much if you’re going out of your way to visit. It was right by the parking garage we parked at to get to the restaurant.
Cultural Exploration at Mint Museum
The Mint Museum is the state’s oldest art museum and a key cultural institution, offering diverse and enriching experiences across its two locations: Mint Museum Randolph and Mint Museum Uptown. Admission gets you into both locations for two straight days. Established in 1936, Mint Museum Randolph, housed in the original U.S. Mint building, features American art, historic costumes, decorative arts, and pre-Columbian art in a serene parkland setting.
Mint Museum Uptown, a modern architectural landmark opened in 2010, showcases contemporary, American, and European art along with the renowned Mint Museum of Craft + Design. Both locations host rotating temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives, making the Mint Museum a hub for artistic exploration and cultural activity in Charlotte.
Keeping Cool at U.S. National Whitewater Center
The Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC, boasts the world’s largest man-made whitewater river and offers outdoor activities year-round. I feel like this is the Disney World of people who love adventure sports!
For under $100 you can get an all access pass to enjoy almost unlimited activities. This place offers whitewater rafting, rock climbing, deep water rock climbing, a ropes course, a 100-foot jump, a zipline, kayaking/SUP, biking, yoga, and hiking trails. If you want to do everything, plan to spend all day there and go on a weekday so you don’t have to wait in long lines.
You can also book one off activities with the white water rafting being a great option if you don’t want to spend all day here.
A lot of people like to just get a day pass and head out with a drink while watching people ride the rapids. They also have regular concerts and there are several restaurants onsite.
It’s pet-friendly with a whole off-leash dog park. Make sure to have close-toed shoes, sunblock, a towel, and a change of clothes!
Read More: Best Things To Do at the Whitewater Center
Day 3 in Charlotte
Culinary and Retail Exploration at Optimist Hall
Optimist Hall is one of Charlotte’s premiere food halls with a wide variety of food and bar stands plus art, indoor-outdoor seating, and events like run clubs, embroidery workshops, happy hours, and more. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon. All of the windows let in natural light and the thoughtful designs of each food stall made this place really special.
One thing that really stood out for me was all of the incredible stories of the owners of each restaurant.
We’ve visited a lot of food halls throughout our travels, but the Optimist Food Hall really stands out as a place I want to spend all day at to enjoy the vibe, take part in events, and try even more food! The hall features 20+ food stalls, three dine-in restaurants, a craft cocktail lounge, and a brewery all on-site.
This is the perfect spot to go when you want a little bit of everything. Beyond eating we also loved checking out the local shops on site! You can read and access their full guide here.
Honeysuckle Gelato
Honeysuckle Gelato started as the passion project of three friends – Jackson Smith, Wes Jones, and Khatera Ballard, with a simple mission to “Be Sweet”. 50% of all profits go to a Food Bank, so you can indulge completely guilt-free. They even have half scoops if you’re like us and want to try as many things as possible on little stomachs. Some of our favorites were the butter pecan, banana pudding, and chocolate caramel.
Enat Ethiopian Restaurant
Enat Ethiopian Restaurant is a woman-owned gem run by Tina Tedla, who brought her mother’s treasured recipes from Ethiopia to the USA. For a little bit of everything, try the meat platter, featuring lamb, beef, and chicken with three delectable sides.
Vegetarians will love the vegan platter, a diverse selection that includes ground chickpea stew, spicy red lentil stew, collard greens, carrots and string beans, cabbage and potato, yellow split peas, potato and beet salad, injera pieces mixed with olive oil, tomatoes, chopped jalapeno peppers, and onions, and brown lentils.
Each dish is served with injera, a traditional thin bread perfect for scooping up the vibrant and delicious food.
Harriet’s Hamburger
Harriet’s Hamburger is an old-school, retro hamburger spot with a very simple menu! Seriously. There is only one burger option, one side option (fries) and a selection of sodas. It’s meant to be that no-frills burger spot when you want something fresher than fast but not fancy with all the toppings and fluff.
Botiwalla
I loved learning the story of Botiwalla! This place is a representation of the Indian/Irani restaurants that sprung up in India in the early 20th century. Irani Cafes were originally tea and kabab houses run by Irani Zoroastrians that emigrated from Persia to India in the late 19th and early 20th century (Meherwan’s great-grandfather Sheriar Irani was one of those immigrants). After the British left, they changed the food to better suit Indian taste buds creating an Indo-Persian fusion.
You’ll also see classic Indian movie posters throughout the restaurant. Bottiwalla serves up a mixture of rolls, skewers wrapped in butter naan and desi slaw, lamb burgers, and curry plates. It’s a flavor bomb as soon as you bite into it. They’re also famous for their boozy slushies.
Suarez Bakery & Cuban Food
This cute Cuban bakeshop immediately stands out with all of the pink vibes and cases that entice you with all of their deserts. You can also get Cuban dishes including Cuban sammies, ropa vieja, Maduros and more. And don’t forget to get café cubano or café con tres leches. We ordered strawberry shortcake, oreo cheesecake and a chocolate chip cookie.
Carlos Suarez (the owner), is the son of a freedom fighter who barely escaped Castro’s Cuba with his wife and children. He began his life in America, starting in Miami and eventually ending up in Charlotte. It was hard, but his perseverance and what he started is amazing.
He started out working in kitchens and learning all about classic baking and now at this spot, you can find a fun mixture of European bakery classics, Cuban desserts he grew up on, Mexican classics, and modern trending treats thanks to his creative team.
El Thrifty Social
This whole spot is a great place to grab a drink and hang out. It’s a Mexican-inspired cantina and In addition to food and drinks they have a whole games room area which includes duckpin bowling, mezcal bar in Optimist Hall. They are a good choice for lunch, dinner, late nights, drinks and brunch. a full-size golf simulator, basketball shot, skeeball, foosball and air hockey.
There’s also an outdoor patio with hanging swing chairs and outdoor seating. They also have indoor seating, a television, they serve alcohol with a full bar including wines and beer.
The Merchant
The Merchant at Optimist Hall is Charlotte’s latest hotspot for vintage home goods and unique finds! This home goods store is your go-to for everything from statement furniture pieces and elegant light fixtures to delicate linens and stunning glassware. Explore a variety of treasures such as aromatic candles, a wide range of coffee table books. The store also offers a carefully chosen selection of gifts and stationery that will bring that will bring you joy.
Paradiso Plant Shop
Paradiso Plant Shop is a vibrant oasis for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. Nestled in the city, this cute shop offers a diverse selection of indoor plants, succulents, and unique botanical treasures, catering to both new and experienced gardeners.
Pet Wants
Pet Wants is a premier pet store dedicated to providing the highest quality nutrition and care products for pets. Located in the heart of the city, this pet-friendly shop offers a variety of fresh, small-batch pet foods made from natural, wholesome ingredients, ensuring optimal health and vitality for your furry friends. Beyond food, Pet Wants also features an array of healthy treats, supplements, grooming supplies, and accessories.
Other Things To Do in Charlotte NC
Wander around NODA
I think it’s a great spot if you want to hit up a few bars, eat at a haberdashery, catch a show at the neighborhood theater, or visit the Mac Tabby Cat Cafe. Then you can enjoy walking around while already there.
Cat Lover’s Haven: Mac Tabby Cat Cafe
This cafe charges for 30-minute sessions with the cute cats. Coming here is a way to support foster cats and all of them are up for adoption. Thanks to Mac Tabby Cat Cafe thousands of cats have been adopted. They have coffee, tea, smoothies, lemonades and refreshers. The whole vibe of the coffee shop is nice and cozy with couches, pretty artwork, plants all over, and lots of cat books.
Rev Up at NASCAR Hall of Fame
The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a premier destination for motorsports enthusiasts, celebrating the rich history and heritage of NASCAR. Opened in 2010, this state-of-the-art facility offers an immersive experience with interactive exhibits, historic memorabilia, and engaging displays. These elements honor the legends of the sport. You can explore exhibits like Glory Road, which showcases iconic cars and tracks, and the Hall of Honor, dedicated to the inductees of the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
With its cutting-edge technology and comprehensive storytelling, the NASCAR Hall of Fame provides a dynamic and educational experience. It is a must-visit for fans and anyone interested in the excitement of stock car racing.
Iconic Exhibits at Harvey B. Gantt Center
The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture is a vibrant institution dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich cultural heritage of African-Americans. Named after Harvey Gantt, the city’s first African-American mayor and a prominent architect, the center serves as a cultural hub. It showcases the contributions of African-Americans to the arts, history and culture. Located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, the Gantt Center features a diverse array of exhibits, performances, and educational programs.
Its rotating exhibitions highlight African-American artists and historical artifacts, providing a comprehensive look at the African-American experience from various perspectives. You can explore visual arts, dance, music, and theater, experiencing the creativity and resilience of the African-American community. The center also hosts community events, workshops, and lectures, fostering dialogue and understanding around issues of race, identity, and cultural expression.
The architectural design of the center, inspired by quilting and African-American textile traditions, is a landmark in itself. This design symbolizes the center’s mission to weave together the threads of the African-American narrative. Through its commitment to education, the Gantt Center offers programs for all ages, including art classes, summer camps, and after-school initiatives. These programs encourage artistic expression and cultural awareness among young people.
Grill and Chill at Seoul Food Meat Company
Seoul Food Meat Company at Mill District offers a Southern Barbeque vibe with a Korean twist in flavors. You can find these Korean-inspired flavors all throughout the menu, from the green tea cornbread, to the beef rib and sauce, and so much more.
Their food is served family-style on trays so it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. We tried the 12-hour beef rib, BAF wings (soy garlic and barbeque), fried whole tilapia and bulgogi kimbap. For sides, we had the baked ram cheese (a fun take on mac ‘n cheese but with ramen noodles), bao buns, potato swirl, and green tea cornbread. We also enjoyed watermelon soju in fruit
Visit Camp North End
This place is a whole area of many small businesses. It’s a great place to relax and grab a bite to eat while you shop the retail spaces. With lots of art, fun swinging chairs, hammocks, picnic tables and events going on all the time, it’s definitely worth stopping by.
We particularly loved going there and letting our inner kid out with the giant Legos. It’s good to know that the free outdoor movies are back at Camp North End in partnership with Aurora Star Lit Cinema! Read this for how to spend a day at Camp North End.
Best Places To Eat in Charlotte NC
Checkout our comprehensive list of the best places to eat in Charlotte, NC. You will find foods from all around the world there, whether you’re into sushi, hamburgers, pizza or anything else.
Read More: Cute Trendy Restaurants in Charlotte NC
How to Spend 3 Days in Charlotte North Carolina: FAQs
What is Charlotte NC popular for?
Below attractions highlight Charlotte’s diverse offerings in sports, arts, culture, and outdoor activities, making it a compelling destination for visitors.
- NASCAR Hall of Fame: Celebrating the history and heritage of NASCAR racing.
- U.S. National Whitewater Center: Offering outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting, zip-lining, and hiking.
- Mint Museum Uptown: Showcasing a diverse collection of art, including American, contemporary, and European works.
- Levine Museum of the New South: Exploring the history and culture of the American South, with exhibits on Southern history and social change.
- Bechtler Museum of Modern Art: Featuring a collection of mid-20th-century modern art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Giacometti.
- Belk Theater at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center: Hosting a variety of performing arts events, including Broadway shows, concerts, and more.
- Lake Norman and Lake Wylie: Providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation near Charlotte.
How much money do I need to spend a weekend in Charlotte?
On average, a weekend trip to Charlotte costs approximately $574 per person for a three-day stay. This estimate covers expenses such as sightseeing, accommodation, dining, and local transportation.
What is the best month to visit Charlotte, NC?
Hotel rates and visitor numbers correlate closely with the high temperatures during this season of the year. The optimal times to visit Charlotte are typically from March to May and from September to November. These seasons offer favorable hotel rates, enjoyable weather, and fewer crowds at popular attractions, making them ideal for a pleasant visit.
Is Charlotte a good weekend trip?
Yes, Charlotte, NC can be a fantastic destination for a weekend trip! Visitors can explore museums like the Mint Museum or NASCAR Hall of Fame. They can also enjoy dining in diverse culinary scenes and relax in beautiful parks such as Freedo. Whether you’re interested in arts and culture, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying good food and entertainment, Charlotte provides a dynamic and enjoyable weekend getaway experience.
How to Spend 3 Days in Charlotte North Carolina: Final Thoughts
As you conclude your three-day adventure in Charlotte, North Carolina, take with you the memories of culinary delights, local boutiques, and luxurious stays that have defined your experience. Whether exploring hidden gems in diverse neighborhoods or enjoying good food at the city’s best restaurants, a Charlotte weekend trip is unforgettable.
Reflect on the moments of discovery and relaxation, knowing that there is always more to explore in this dynamic city. If you’re looking for fun-filled days, Charlotte is guaranteed to be the best place to visit.
Last Updated 5 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: July 3, 2024
